PRESS STATEMENT
GHANA FEDERATION OF DISABILITY ORGANISATIONS (GFD) – VOLTA REGION
SOLIDARITY MESSAGE ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2026 INTERNATIONAL ALBINISM AWARENESS DAY CELEBRATION
Theme: “Proudly in My Skin, Celebrating All Skin Tones”
Date:13th June 2026
Issued by:The Volta Regional President, Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD)
Members of the media, distinguished guests, representatives of the Persons with Albinism Association of Ghana, leaders of disability organisations, development partners, traditional and religious leaders, ladies and gentlemen:
The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), Volta Region, extends its warmest greetings and solidarity to all persons with albinism in Ghana and across the world as we commemorate the 2026 International Albinism Awareness Day under the theme: “Proudly in My Skin, Celebrating All Skin Tones.”
Today’s celebration provides an important opportunity to recognise the uniqueness, resilience, talents, and contributions of persons with albinism while renewing our collective commitment to building an inclusive society where every person is respected, protected, and given equal opportunities irrespective of skin colour, appearance, or disability status.
The theme reminds us that diversity is a strength and that every skin tone deserves dignity, appreciation, and acceptance. However, persons with albinism continue to experience challenges, including discrimination, stigma, social exclusion, limited access to education and employment opportunities, and inadequate access to essential healthcare services, particularly eye and skin care.
The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations stands firmly with persons with albinism in the continuous fight for equality, inclusion, social justice, and the protection of their fundamental human rights. We acknowledge and commend the efforts of the Persons with Albinism Association of Ghana for its continuous advocacy, awareness creation, and support for persons with albinism across the country.
CALL TO ACTION AND WAY FORWARD
As we mark this important occasion, the Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), Volta Region, calls on all stakeholders to take practical steps towards creating a society where persons with albinism can live with dignity, confidence, and equal opportunities.
We therefore call on:
- 1. Government and Policymakers
To strengthen policies and programmes that promote the rights and welfare of persons with albinism, including improved access to healthcare, inclusive education, social protection,
employment opportunities, and effective enforcement of laws against discrimination.
- 2. Local Government Authorities and Traditional Leaders
To actively support disability inclusion initiatives and ensure that persons with albinism are included in community development programmes and decision-making processes.
- 3. Educational Institutions
To create safe and inclusive learning environments by addressing stigma, discrimination, and bullying against students with albinism while providing the necessary support to enhance their academic success.
- 4. Health Institutions and Development Partners
To expand access to affordable eye care, skin protection services, regular medical screening, and public education on albinism-related health needs.
- 5. Media Organisations
To use their platforms responsibly to challenge harmful stereotypes, educate the public, and promote positive stories about persons with albinism and their achievements.
- 6. The General Public
To reject myths, misconceptions, and harmful beliefs associated with albinism and embrace persons with albinism as equal members of society with valuable contributions to national development.
Our Commitment
The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), Volta Region, reaffirms its commitment to working with persons with albinism, government institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners to promote equality, inclusion, and social justice.
To all persons with albinism, we say: Be proud of who you are. Your skin is beautiful, your identity matters, and your contribution to society is valuable.No form of discrimination or prejudice should prevent you from achieving your dreams and aspirations.
Together, we can build a Ghana where diversity is celebrated, differences are respected, and every individual has the opportunity to participate fully in society.
Thank you.
Long live Persons with Albinism! Long live Disability Inclusion! Long live Ghana!
Signed:
ELIKPLIM AFUA KLU
Volta Regional President
Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD)
